Preaching to Myself

A compelling preacher shares her unique method for creating memorable sermons in this practical, down-to-earth manual that's chock-full of excellent ideas for homiletical preparation. It's an engaging look at what characterizes outstanding preaching as well as a humorous catalog of the hazards facing those who enter the pulpit. Schmitz relates numerous amusing and instructive anecdotes from her own preaching experience and offers valuable advice on how to write and deliver messages with maximum impact. For example, Schmitz notes that compelling stories which resonate with hearers are a crucial ingredient of great sermons -- and Preaching To Myself illustrates how to tap into this endlessly renewable resource. Simple, funny, field-tested in the trenches with real people -- if you want to enjoy a chuckle while learning what makes top-notch sermons that change lives, then this is the book for you.Schmitz has written an entertaining and engaging book full of helpful ideas and sermon examples that will challenge and inspire. This is a very good tool, especially for the newer preacher.Rev. Kevin E. MartinCanon for Congregational Development, Episcopal Diocese of TexasPreaching To Myself will be very useful, particularly for people who feel unorganized about the whole project of preaching. It's written with humor and lots of helpful hints about how to get and stay organized for this crucial ministry.Rt. Rev. Catherine M. WaynickBishop, Episcopal Diocese of IndianapolisBarbara G. Schmitz is an Episcopal priest who loves to preach. She has served several Episcopal and Lutheran churches in Michigan, as well as at the diocesan and synodical level. She is currently the Assistant to the Bishop of the North/West Lower Michigan Synod (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). A graduate of Houghton College and Cornell University, Schmitz is the author of The Life Of Christ And The Death Of A Loved One: Crafting The Funeral Homily (CSS).